Your seasonal guide
Seasonal observations, what to see in nature when out and about, environmental matters.
Want to try to write something? Passionate, or got something to say? This might be the place for you. Read on. We are looking for people that would like an opportunity to write for this site. Anything from regular features to irregular features, one-off articles, or a sub-section of this site. Any subject you like…
Formerly used for Gravel extraction, now important for many rare and declining species of wilslife. Andover is fortunate to have Rooksbury Mill Nature Reserve, nestled between the A303 and Watermills Park. The site started life as part of the Rooksbury Estate. In 1969 it was used for gravel extraction, before being filled, converted to a…
Recording first, and what platforms to use. When creating a new nature reserve either on a large scale, or just creating a wild area in your garden, or improving a wild area, it is best NOT just to get stuck straight in! To truly know if your conservation project is working, or not, you need…
Many Andover residents know of Ladies Walk it’s a stunning area with views right across town. The walk was planted with an avenue of trees in 1863 to commemorate the wedding of The Prince of Wales to Princess Alexander. The trees are very mature and some are rotting providing habitats for invertebrates, fungi and bats,…
Local residents will be aware of Anton Lakes Nature Reserve. Despite its size and urban setting, there is a variety of important habitats, ranging from lakes to grassland. Wetlands provide ideal conditions for plants like the aromatic meadowsweet, water avens, marsh valerian, and cuckoo flower (foodplant of the orange-tip butterfly). There is a variety of…
To my recollection, the last time it was properly dry was September 2019. OK, there might have been a day here or there with no rains, but seriously? We have had none of those solstice type lingering highs that produce cold crisp winter days (and hot summer days), no snow, no frost, just rain, wind,…